The screamers and the greasers were out in full force at last Thursday’s night Racette spring concert, as the school’s band program put on a boss show that transported visitors to the 1950’s era.
The girls donned their poodle skirts and Pink Ladies’ jackets, while the guys rocked out the white shirts and shades, James Dean-style. The band of 155 kids from Grades 6 to 9 let it rip with a selection of 50s and 60’s classics to a wildly appreciative audience. Vintage cars were brought in and the school was decorated up like the set of a Happy Days’ diner, completing the look of another time.
“Every year, we pick a theme. Last time we did this theme was five years ago,” said band teacher Mark Levasseur, who was rocking out the 50’s style himself with some tight black jeans and slicked hair. “The kids really bought into it.”
All funds raised, through the barbecue and admission by donations, went to the music program, with $1,500 collected by the end of the night. But to put it in perspective, said Levasseur, even just one tenor sax costs $1,800 to $3,500, which is why so many band programs in schools are disappearing.
However, he said, “Every little bit helps – obviously, we’re going through a recession, but people still found it in their hearts to donate money, which is awesome.”
